Noah Han is a Project Mechanical Engineer in Oceaneering’s Hanover, MD facility. He joined Oceaneering Technologies (OTECH) in 2019 after completing his studies in naval architecture at the University of Southampton and earning his master’s degree.
During his tenure at Oceaneering, he’s had multiple opportunities to advance his knowledge and expertise.
Oceaneering has taught him a valuable learning skill; one he practices every day.
“Ask questions and seek out mentors who encourage you to ask more questions.”
Noah’s curiosity, interests, and willingness to learn are shaping his career path at Oceaneering. He recently switched from Mechanical Engineering to the Software, Simulation, and Controls (SSC) team. SSC encompasses software development and the analysis group, which creates physics-based simulations and designs controllers. As part of the analysis team, Noah uses simulations to inform vehicle design decisions on topics from hydrodynamics to guidance, navigation, and control. He works closely with the software developers and collaborates directly with electrical and mechanical engineers.
“In Mechanical Engineering, I was focused on the design, build, testing, installation, and maintenance of an ROV system. My first objective in the SSC group has been to simulate the motion of an ROV to optimize its flight controller.”
Noah works on large and small vehicles (ROVs) equipped with pressure tolerant electronics, inertial navigation systems, onboard sensors, and modular payloads that deliver real-time data to offshore operators.
“While the large vehicles are around the size of a small car, our small vehicles can swim around in a pool. Designing vehicles for the underwater environment is a fun challenge because of the limitations: it’s wet, dark, and there’s a lot of hydrostatic pressure.”
Oceaneering engineers work on one-of-a-kind projects in a dynamic, hands-on environment. When their designs are complete, they can assist with building and testing their creations in the field, learning how they operate, and how they can be improved.
“There’s almost always testing to be done in the shop, in the pool, or out on the water! It’s fun to collaborate with the techs and get away from the computer screen.”
Noah enjoys a hybrid work schedule, going into the office two to three days a week. When onsite, he builds hardware, test components, and collaborates with his cubemates. When at home, he focuses on his simulation work, evaluates whatever testing didn’t go according to plan, and regroups for the next time.
Oceaneering offers the opportunity to build interesting careers in an industry where innovation and problem-solving are the order of the day.
“Oceaneering has a small company vibe where you can grow. If you express an interest in learning more about a field and if you put in some effort, you’ll find support for engaging in new opportunities to further your growth.”